The use of ´prestige language in Tennessee Williams’s A streetcar named Desire
Keywords:
Literatura do Sul estadunidense, Teatro e dramaturgia estadunidense, Sintaxe da língua inglesa, American (Southern) Literature, American Drama and Theatre, English SyntaxAbstract
O artigo discute a utilização da linguagem de prestígio na peça A streetcar named Desire, de Williams. O autor explora a personagem Blanche DuBois, que utiliza uma linguagem pretensiosa e melodramática para projetar uma imagem de classe alta e ocultar sua verdadeira natureza. Blanche personifica a decadência pessoal e artística que permeia a obra de Williams. A linguagem de prestígio é caracterizada por ser formal e associada a contextos sociais de boa reputação. Blanche utiliza essa linguagem para criar uma imagem refinada e superior, contrastando com sua deterioração emocional e mental. O artigo também discute a relação entre Blanche e a realidade, sua busca por ilusões e sua luta para manter uma imagem que não condiz com sua verdadeira natureza. Através da análise da personagem e das técnicas narrativas de Williams, o artigo revela o tema recorrente de arte e decadência presente em sua obra.
Abstract
The article discusses the utilization of prestige language in Tennessee Williams’s A streetcar named Desire. It explores the character Blanche DuBois, who employs a pretentious and melodramatic language to project an image of high social status and conceal her true nature. Blanche embodies personal and artistic decay that pervades Williams’ work. Prestige language is characterized as formal and associated with prestigious social contexts. Blanche employs this language to create a refined and superior image, contrasting with her emotional and mental deterioration. The article also delves into the relationship between Blanche and reality, her pursuit of illusions, and her struggle to maintain an image that doesn’t align with her true nature. Through the analysis of the character and Williams’s narrative techniques, the article reveals the recurring theme of art and decay in his work.
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